A Career as a Health Protection Officer (JTJS52010)

Kirstie from Tauranga Girls' High meets health protection officer Trieste Ngawhika who explains her role involves identifying and managing public health risks. Trieste is immediately out on the job checking a ship that has arrived in port from Japan to ensure the galley doesn't harbour unwanted guests such as cockroaches. She and Kirstie also check for any debris that might be hiding beneath surfaces that could contain a health risk. It's just one the many varied situations Trieste might find herself dealing with on the job.

Variety is certainly a major aspect of this career and next they are off to do a water safety check by taking a sample of drinking water and testing it for contaminants. Then back in the lab, there is more testing to be done but this time, it's on the paint from a play centre playhouse suspected of containing lead, particularly dangerous to children.

Finally they receive a call from public health doctor Neil De Wet regarding a suspected case of H1N1 or swine flu. Kirstie questions Dave, who is suspected of having H1N1, about his symptom to ascertain if he does have this flu strain. She takes a sample and explains if he does have swine flu, he will need to isolate himself until better.

With great communication skills and a real willingness to help in the community, Kirstie may have discovered just the job for her.

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